Thurs 11th June - Updates from Year 5 in Xian

Day 4- Year 5 were up earlier today for a quick breakfast followed by a long drive to Taiping valley.
We hiked along side bubbling brooks, over various bridges and saw some interesting rocky terrain on our way up to the Jade Belt waterfall. It was a magical view with the perfect blue sky above the lush green mountain peaks and the water bouncing down the granite rock face. After a short rest we hiked back down to the buses and had a picnic lunch.
Now we are heading back into town were we will split into 2 groups swapping between shopping in the Muslim street markets and exploring the Drum Tower with a drum show.

10pm

The drive back into Xi'an city after lunch was uneventful with lots of students (and teachers) napping.
Once the children got to the markets, all energy was restored. A highlight of the trip, it was good to see the children practising their Chinese skills and haggling with the shop keepers. Most children planned out their purchases ensuring they bought gifts for each member of their family and a few for themselves too. I don't think there was a single kuai left over.
After our shopping trip we then made our way to the drum tower to watch a drumming performance. It was very impressive (and loud). Our tour guide then took us on a tour of the Drum tower and explained some of the history. We also looked at some traditional furniture on display.
We finished off the day with dinner at a BBQ restaurant and ice-cream for dessert. Then it was back to the hotel to pack all of their stinky clothes as well as their gifts. Followed by a little downtime/TV before lights out at 8.30.

One more adventure tomorrow morning before we head to the airport and return to Beijing.